Calories in a Philadelphia Roll: What to Know
A single Philadelphia roll, a popular type of sushi, typically contains between 300 and 350 calories. This calorie count can vary slightly depending on the specific ingredients and the size of the roll. The primary contributors to the calorie count are the cream cheese, avocado, and rice.
Let’s dive deeper into the calorie breakdown and explore factors influencing the overall calorie content of this beloved sushi roll.
Calorie Breakdown of a Philadelphia Roll
The Philadelphia roll is composed of several key ingredients, each contributing differently to the total calorie count. Understanding the individual components helps you make informed dietary choices.
Rice
Sushi rice, often seasoned with sugar and vinegar, is a significant source of carbohydrates and calories. A typical Philadelphia roll uses about 1 cup of cooked sushi rice, which can contribute around 200 calories.
Cream Cheese
The creamy texture that defines the Philadelphia roll comes from cream cheese. This ingredient is high in fat and calories. Two ounces (about 56 grams) of cream cheese can add approximately 100 calories to the roll.
Salmon
Smoked salmon provides protein and healthy fats. However, it also adds to the overall calorie count. About 2 ounces of smoked salmon contribute roughly 80-100 calories.
Avocado
Avocado offers healthy fats and contributes to the roll’s creamy texture. Typically, half an avocado used in a roll adds approximately 110-160 calories.
Nori (Seaweed)
Nori, the seaweed wrapper, is very low in calories and contributes minimally to the overall calorie count. A sheet of nori contains about 5-10 calories.
Factors Influencing Calorie Content
Several factors can influence the number of calories in a Philadelphia roll:
- Size of the Roll: Larger rolls will naturally contain more ingredients and thus more calories.
- Amount of Cream Cheese: The amount of cream cheese can vary significantly depending on the restaurant or preparation method.
- Type of Salmon: Smoked salmon varieties may differ slightly in fat content and calorie count.
- Added Ingredients: Some variations might include extra ingredients like sesame seeds, sauces, or vegetables, which can impact the total calorie count.
Nutritional Information and Health Considerations
While delicious, it’s essential to consider the nutritional profile of a Philadelphia roll. Besides calories, it contains carbohydrates, fats, protein, and some vitamins and minerals. The high fat content, mainly from cream cheese and avocado, should be considered as part of a balanced diet. For more comprehensive information about sushi, you can refer to Wikipedia’s sushi page.
FAQs About Philadelphia Roll Calories
How many calories are in 6 pieces of a Philadelphia roll?
Since a typical roll is cut into 6-8 pieces, and a whole roll contains 300-350 calories, 6 pieces would contain approximately 225-300 calories.
Is Philadelphia roll healthy?
While it contains healthy fats and protein, the high calorie and fat content, especially from cream cheese, mean it should be consumed in moderation.
Does the calorie count vary between restaurants?
Yes, calorie counts can vary due to differences in ingredient amounts and preparation methods.
What is the best way to reduce calories in a Philadelphia roll?
Ask for less cream cheese or substitute it with avocado, or order a smaller portion.
What are the macro nutrient breakdowns of Philadelphia Roll?
While it varies on prep, an estimate per roll is approximately: 35g carbohydrates, 15g fat, and 15g protein.
Summary
A Philadelphia roll typically contains 300-350 calories, primarily from rice, cream cheese, salmon, and avocado. The exact calorie count can vary based on the roll’s size and the specific ingredients used. While it offers some nutritional benefits, moderation is key due to its higher calorie and fat content. Being mindful of these factors allows you to enjoy your sushi while maintaining a balanced diet.
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